Case study: SA Power Networks
Power network transformer: how SA Power is using 200 Vocus Satellite – Starlink services to provide better service
Overview
SA Power Networks, the electricity distributor for South Australia, has partnered with Vocus and installation partner Advanced Mobile IT (AMIT) to roll out Starlink satellite technology across its vehicle fleet in regional sites. The solution has transformed the way SA Power Networks works in remote areas by providing cellular coverage where it was previously unreliable or non-existent. This has led to improved efficiency through better response times and better communication with customers, along with safety benefits.
Innovation in emergency response
SA Power Networks, serving over 1.7 million South Australians, recognised the need to upgrade its field communication capabilities. The outdated satellite system, with a maximum speed of 0.5 Mbps, hindered timely data uploads and delayed responses during power outages.
With the 3G network shutdown threatening regional vehicle coverage, SA Power Networks partnered with Vocus and Advanced Mobile IT to develop a modern solution for emergency response.
"Our satellite connection couldn’t meet our needs, especially with 3G decommissioning. We required real-time communication for our field crews," said Mark Tate, Technology Operations Manager.
Ensuring worker safety during emergency responses in remote areas was also crucial, leading to a solution designed to keep teams connected in isolated environments.
Developing a transformative solution
Vocus worked closely with SA Power Networks to address its unique requirements and develop a tailored solution. The answer lay in deploying Vocus – Starlink satellite technology across their field services, emergency response vehicle fleet and remote sites.
Advanced Mobile IT, with its strong track record in maintaining the IT requirements of SA Power Networks' vehicle fleet, was the obvious choice to design and install custom mounting, power and routing solutions for the Vocus Satellite – Starlink equipment.
"SA Power Networks has two types of vehicles – line trucks and light vehicles. For the light vehicles, most of them have ladder racks, limiting where we can mount the Starlink dish. We've engineered a ladder rack bracket that allows the dish to sit on top while keeping it out of harm's way during loading and unloading," explained Nicholas Cizauskas, from Advanced Mobile IT.
Solution
The deployment of 179 Starlink units on emergency vehicles and 21 in fixed locations, along with Advanced Mobile IT’s custom mounting solutions, has revolutionised SA Power Networks' response capabilities.
Mark Tate said the Vocus’ Satellite – Starlink solution, combined with Advanced Mobile IT's expertise in vehicle installations, has been a game-changer. “We're seeing significant improvements in real-time communication, faster restoration times, and the ability to support our communities during emergencies by staying connected."
Outcome
Field crews can now transfer data, photos, and updates in real-time, enabling faster decision-making and more efficient power restoration processes.
The project has yielded numerous benefits, as highlighted by Mir Asim, Project Manager at SA Power Networks: "We've seen significant efficiency gains in work closeout, improved worker safety through always-on communication, and the ability to implement digital field switching – the ability to control the power network remotely through SCADA equipment – in areas where connectivity was previously a challenge."
“We are setting a new standard in emergency response and community resilience, and it has been made possible by the seamless connectivity that low-earth orbit satellites can provide,” he said. “The Vocus and Advanced Mobile IT teams have made our ambition happen – it’s been a tremendously productive partnership.”
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